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If you’ve ever wished to escape the responsibilities of “adulting” and relive the magic of childhood, Peter Pan at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts delivers just that. As a father of three, I’m always on the lookout for performances that can truly captivate my kids, and this one did not disappoint. From the moment the curtain rose, they were completely engrossed—not just in the timeless story, but in the dazzling effects, seamless flying sequences, and dynamic performances that brought Neverland to life.
Spectacle and Special Effects
The technical wizardry behind this production is truly impressive. The flying sequences were nothing short of breathtaking, with Peter Pan, Wendy, John, and Michael soaring across the stage with an effortless grace that made it feel as if they had truly left reality behind. The transition from the Darling nursery to the starry sky of Neverland was thrilling, with fast-paced projections that created the sensation of flight, keeping both the kids and adults in the audience mesmerized.
Another standout moment was Peter’s dance with his shadow. I’ll admit, I was skeptical about how they would pull off this iconic scene, but they nailed it. Every move was flawlessly synchronized, making it feel like the shadow had a life of its own. And then there was Tinkerbell—depicted by a twinkling light darting across the stage, disappearing into drawers, and barely escaping Peter’s grasp. My kids were absolutely enthralled by her mischievous energy.
Standout Performances
Jonah Barricklo (who played Peter Pan the night we attended) stepped into the role with ease, bringing infectious energy to every scene. His playful arrogance and boundless enthusiasm embodied the essence of Peter Pan, making it easy to believe in Neverland. His vocal performance was strong, and his aerial stunts never felt forced—just a boy who belonged in the sky.
Cody Garcia stole the show as Captain Hook. His exaggerated movements, Scottish brogue, and over-the-top expressions made him both menacing and hilarious. It’s rare to see a villain so effortlessly command the stage while also inviting the audience to laugh at his failures. When he made his Act 2 entrance, the audience booed enthusiastically, and he reveled in every second of it—exactly what you want from a classic stage villain. His transition between Hook and Mr. Darling was seamless, shifting between the two personas so naturally that it was easy to forget it was the same actor.
Hawa Kamara as Wendy radiated warmth and charm, embodying the character’s nurturing spirit while also asserting her independence. Levi Christopulos (John) and Camden Kwok (Michael) were utterly adorable, delivering strong performances that made their characters lovable and believable.
Kurt Perry’s Smee was another highlight—his comedic timing and exaggerated fear of Hook provided the perfect comic relief. And Bailey Frankenberg’s Tiger Lily had a fierce presence, standing strong as the leader of her tribe.
A Modern Take—For Better or Worse
While the performances and effects were stellar, there were a few script changes that felt forced. Wendy’s repeated insistence on becoming a doctor instead of discussing traditional motherhood themes was a nice update, but it was hammered a bit too hard. The choice to replace Nana the dog with a distracted babysitter wearing headphones felt like a missed opportunity, removing a beloved character from the story. And Tinkerbell calling Wendy an “ass” multiple times? Unnecessary and jarring, especially in a family-friendly production.
That said, these issues were with the script itself, not the execution by the cast or crew. The only minor critique of the production was a fake tap-dance sequence that would have been more effective with actual tap shoes.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the night, my kids walked out completely spellbound—and let’s be honest, that’s the true measure of a great family show. Peter Pan balances stunning visuals, high-energy performances, and just the right amount of humor to keep both kids and adults entertained. Despite a few modernizations that felt out of place, the magic of Neverland was alive and well. If you’re looking for a show that will make your kids believe in flying and bring out your own inner child, this production is absolutely worth seeing.
Peter Pan runs at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts through February 23rd. Tickets and showtimes vary based on seating and availability. For more information, visit https://www.fscjartistseries.org or call (904) 632-5000.
